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Why do people go to Abel Tasman National Park?
Abel Tasman National Park is famous for its blend of coast and bush, with gentle walking tracks, sheltered bays, and the option to mix walking with sea kayaking or water taxis. The Abel Tasman Coast Track stretches 60 km from Mārahau to Wainui and is typically completed over 3–5 days. Many visitors opt for shorter sections or day trips using boat transfers to access remote points.
Along the track, expect tidal estuaries, native bush, waterfalls, and secluded beaches. Kekeno (New Zealand fur seals) are often seen on the rocks around Tonga Island. Anchorage, Bark Bay, and Awaroa are among the most popular spots for scenic breaks or overnight stays.
A standout side trip is Cleopatra’s Pool – a natural rock pool and smooth rockslide near Anchorage. It’s a short detour via a forested stream track and a popular stop on warm days.
How long should I spend at Abel Tasman National Park?
The park can be experienced in a half-day or over several days, depending on your time and interests.
For a short visit, take a water taxi from Mārahau or Kaiteriteri to Anchorage or Torrent Bay, walk a section of the track, and return by boat. Cleopatra’s Pool can be included in this loop if the tides allow.
If you have 2–3 days, you can combine walking and kayaking across multiple sections, staying overnight at DOC campsites or huts or at the well-known Awaroa Lodge, which is accessible only by boat, foot, or helicopter.
The full 60 km track typically takes 3–5 days one way and is most often walked south to north, with boat transfers used to shorten the route or provide return transport.
Is Abel Tasman National Park worth visiting?
Yes. Abel Tasman is one of New Zealand’s most visited national parks for good reason. The track’s relatively easy gradient, combined with the coastal views, well-managed infrastructure, and flexible transport options, make it appealing to a wide range of travellers.
Even a short visit offers classic South Island coastal scenery, including bush-fringed coves, golden sand beaches, and clear water that’s ideal for swimming or kayaking.
How to get to Abel Tasman National Park
From Nelson, it’s around 80 km (1 hr 30 min) to Mārahau via State Highway 60 and Motueka. Mārahau is the park’s southern entrance and main base for water taxis, walking, and kayaking.
Kaiteriteri, just north of Mārahau, is another departure point for boat trips and has public parking.
The northern entrance is via Wainui, near Tākaka in Golden Bay. To reach this area, you'll need to drive over the Tākaka Hill – allow extra time for the winding road.
Note that there’s no road running through the park’s length. All access along the coast is by foot, boat, or kayak.
Best time to visit Abel Tasman National Park
The park is open year-round. Thanks to its mild climate, it’s possible to walk the track in any season. However, the most popular time to visit is between November and April, when the days are longer and the water is warm enough for swimming.
Summer is also the busiest season. If you’re travelling between December and February, book campsites and water taxis in advance.
To catch the best light for photography and to plan around tidal estuary crossings, start your walk early in the morning. Afternoon is typically warmer – ideal for swimming or kayaking.
Weather at Abel Tasman National Park
Abel Tasman has a drier and sunnier climate than much of the West Coast, but conditions can still change quickly. Expect cool mornings, sea breezes, and strong sun. Layers, a windproof jacket, and sun protection are recommended year-round.
If you’re planning to cross estuaries, check the tide times and track notes from DOC.
Best place to park your campervan at Abel Tasman National Park
Mārahau: DOC’s main day parking area is near the park entrance and water taxi terminals. Overnight freedom camping is not permitted here, so a good option is the Marahau Beach Camp if you plan to stay.
Kaiteriteri: Offers public parking, with an overnight lot about a 15-minute walk from the beach. It’s a good option if you’re catching a boat from Kaiteriteri. For camping, a popular option is the Kaiteriteri Recreation Reserve.
Tōtaranui Campground: Located in the park’s north, this large DOC site (269 campervan spaces) is accessible via an unsealed road. It’s well-equipped and popular in summer – book ahead.
If you’re not staying at a holiday park or DOC campsite, arrange secure paid parking with your water taxi operator and avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.
Must-see highlights and quick answers
How long is the Abel Tasman Track?
The track is 60 km one way. Most people walk it in 3–5 days, but shorter day trips are common.
Where is Cleopatra’s Pool?
It’s a short detour from Anchorage via a bush track. The walk includes some boulder-hopping and is best done in summer when stream levels are lower.
Can you drive into Abel Tasman National Park?
No. Apart from the road to Tōtaranui, there is no road access along the coast. Travel is by foot, kayak, or water taxi.
Where can you stay inside Abel Tasman National Park?
Options include DOC campsites and huts and Awaroa Lodge.
Road trips that pass through
Abel Tasman National Park is easy to include on a wider South Island road trip. If you’re planning to explore by campervan, consider these itineraries: